At Siqaján School, learning reaches beyond the classroom. From the joyful sounds of our first school band to colorful celebrations in the heart of town, students are engaging with their culture, their community, and each other in meaningful ways. In this issue, we share moments of creativity and care, including a spotlight on one of the passionate educators shaping this journey.

Striking the First Notes of a New School Band

Our first graders launched something special—Siqaján School’s very first band, Merry Movements. With guidance from our local music teacher, Santos, the students have already learned three songs.



The excitement reached beyond the classroom, as parents teamed up to design the new uniforms. The band is more than a music project, it is a joyful expression of local talent and teamwork.

Students Share Joy with Their Community

This month, our students took part in two local celebrations that brought families and neighbors together. They joined the town’s annual Children's Parade which is held in honor of Santa Elenta de la Cruz, the town's local patron saint. Dressed in costumes, they performed a dance that delighted the crowd, and our newly formed school band proudly made its public debut.

Also, for Mother's Day, we teamed up with the Municipal Government and local businesses to organize a joyful event honoring all of the mothers in our school community.

These moments remind us that our school is deeply rooted in a community that supports and celebrates one another. Seeing students take part in celebrations that connect generations shows just how much this new school is already becoming a vibrant part of Santa Cruz life.

Staff Spotlight: Kindergarten Teacher Yahaira Mejía

"Every morning, our youngest students run to greet Yahaira with bright smiles and warm hugs, a reflection of the deep trust and love she’s built with them", our school director reflects.

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Yahaira is a bilingual intercultural preschool educator and is currently pursuing a degree in early childhood education. She comes from the neighboring town of Panajachel. Just a ten minute boat ride away, yet she sees that children in Santa Cruz are already behind their peers. This gap has inspired her to be even more dedicated to helping her students catch up in areas such as language development, letter, shape and color recognition. We are honored to have her on our team and proud to support her journey as an educator!

"I believe education is the foundation for transforming lives. Every word, every game, every hug matters in a child’s early years. My mission as a teacher is to build a stronger future for each of my students, walking alongside them as they grow."

Thanks to your support, Yahaira and her students are growing together, with dignity and opportunity guiding each step. We are deeply grateful for your role in making this vision a reality.

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